No Child Should Spend Life In Prison

At the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth, we work to end extreme sentencing for children,and particularly the practice of sentencing children to life in prison without the possibility of parole. We lead, coordinate, develop, and support efforts to implement just alternatives to these excessive sentences, and we seek to address, reduce, and eventually eliminate the disproportionately punitive treatment of youth of color.

Show Your Support

ICAN (Incarcerated Children’s Advocacy Network) is a network of leaders who were incarcerated as children. Now, they’re informing our efforts, communicating their personal stories, and driving efforts to create positive change within their communities.

Featured Story

In 1987, 16-year-old Antonio Espree, a close friend of his, and an innocent bystander were shot during a drug-related dispute in Ypsilanti, MI.

Antonio was the only shooting victim who survived, and he was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for first degree murder. He had only been arrested once before, for running away from home.

https://www.fairsentencingofyouth.org/wp-content/uploads/snapshot-2018.jpg510405Matt GritzmacherMatt Gritzmacher2018-01-25 15:54:392018-02-16 18:13:46Two years after Montgomery, progress and work to be done

Join The Cause

At the CFSY, we’re on the front lines working to ensure that children– even those who have made grave mistakes– are held accountable in fair, age-appropriate ways. You can join us. Learn how to get involved below and help us make a real difference in the lives of individuals who were incarcerated as children, their families, and all people affected by injustices in the system.

Learn more about the mission and the challenges facing communities today